Social media

You may find it useful to connect with other parents of children with type 1 diabetes via social media. Parents have told us they find Facebook groups such as Parents of children with type 1 diabetes in the UK and Type 1 Kidz useful.

Financial support

When your child/young person has diabetes, you may notice some additional extra costs. For more information visit DLA visit gov.uk or Diabetes UK to learn more about diabetes and benefits.

Healthcare travel costs scheme (HTCS)

The Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS) can be used to claim a refund of reasonable travel costs if attending the hospital for NHS treatment or diagnostic tests. This scheme is only available for families receiving one of the qualifying benefits or who meet the eligibility criteria for the NHS Low Income Scheme.

Claiming a refund

To claim a refund for your travel costs at CDDFT:

  • On arriving at the hospital, collect the claim form from the cashiers office
  • Complete the form and get a member of staff to sign, confirming your attendance
  • After your appointment, take this form together with these 3 things:
    • Proof of appointment - such as an appointment letter or text
    • Travel tickets, parking ticket
    • Proof of the benefits you receive or your tax credits award notice.

Local advice and support

The local councils provide a directory of local services including financial support, foodbanks and more which may help you access additional support for your family:

For advice around claiming benefits or other financial support you can speak to the local Citizens Advice team (County Durham, Darlington, Redcar & Cleveland) who provide free, independent, confidential and impartial advice.